Odisha CM Rewards Indian Hockey Teams for Asian Games Triumph: What’s Next for the Sport?

Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced significant cash rewards for the Indian men's and women's hockey teams following their gold medal victories at the 2026 Asian Games. Each player will receive ₹11 lakh, while support staff will get ₹5.5 lakh. This historic achievement marks the first time both teams have won gold in the same edition of the Games, securing their spots in the upcoming Olympics. The Odisha government, a long-time supporter of hockey, continues to emphasize its commitment to nurturing sporting talent in the state. Read on to learn more about the implications of these victories for Indian hockey and the state's ongoing support.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 4, 2026, 14:23 IST

Celebrating Hockey Success in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, has declared a cash prize of ₹11 lakh for each player of the men's hockey team that secured gold at the 2026 Asian Games, along with ₹5.5 lakh for every member of the support staff.

India achieved a remarkable victory over Malaysia with a score of 5-1 on Saturday, marking their second gold medal in men's hockey at the Asian Games and securing a spot in the 2028 Olympics. This victory followed the women's team’s impressive win against the defending champions, China, with a score of 1-0, which also earned them an Olympic berth after 44 years.

This historic event marks the first occasion where both the men's and women's teams have emerged victorious in the same edition of the Asian Games.

In a message shared on X, the Odisha Chief Minister expressed, "In recognition of their Gold Medal achievement at the Asian Games 2026, I am pleased to announce a cash reward of ₹11 lakh for each player and ₹5.5 lakh for each support staff member of the Indian Men's Hockey Team."

Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi has announced a cash award of ₹11 lakh each for the players and ₹5.5 lakh each for the support staff of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team in recognition of their historic Gold Medal victory at the Asian Games 2026.

The Chief Minister congratulated the team for their outstanding performance, determination and commitment, which have brought immense pride to the nation.

Odisha Government stands firmly with Indian hockey and remains committed to supporting and nurturing sporting excellence.

#TeamIndia
#India #IndiaAtAsianGames #AsianGames2026 #hockey #Cheer4Bharat

— CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) October 3, 2026

The Chief Minister praised the entire team for their dedication and contribution to this significant achievement. He emphasized Odisha's strong ties to Indian hockey and its commitment to fostering sporting excellence.

Majhi also reached out to two players from the Indian men's hockey team, Amit Rohidas and Shilanand Lakra, commending their exceptional performances.

A similar cash reward has been announced for the members of the Indian women's hockey team and their support staff for their gold medal win at the Asian Games. The Odisha CMO reiterated the state's unwavering support for Indian hockey.

The Odisha government has been the official sponsor of both the men's and women's national hockey teams until 2036, making it the first Indian state to take on this role in 2018.

The opposition party, BJD, attributed the success of Indian hockey at the Asian Games to the visionary leadership of its president and former chief minister, Naveen Patnaik.

"When others turned away from hockey, Naveen held on tightly. Talent was recognized, and hockey received the encouragement it needed. Today, every Odia takes pride in being a supporter of Indian hockey. Double Gold in Asian Games; One Man’s Vision, Entire Nation’s Pride!" the party stated in a social media post.